CRISTAL WATCH CHRONOGRAPH, 1950s, CAL. LANDERON 152

Cristal Watch and its watchmaking legacy in the 1950s

The brand Cristal Watch was one of the watchmaking firms that flourished during the first half of the 20th century, standing out for manufacturing quality watches with reliable Swiss movements. Although it did not enjoy the same fame as other renowned Swiss watch houses, the brand made its mark on the industry with its precision chronographs and commitment to innovation.

In the 1950s, Cristal Watch produced a series of mechanical chronographs, characterized by elegant and robust designs, suitable for both professional use and watch enthusiasts. Among the most used movements in these watches was the Landeron 152, a caliber widely recognized for its precision and durability.

The Landeron 152 caliber: the heart of Cristal Watch chronographs

The Landeron 152 was a manual-winding mechanical chronograph movement, produced by the historic Fabrique d’Ébauches de Landeron company, part of the Ébauches SA group. This caliber, introduced in the 1940s and widely used in the 1950s, featured:

• 17 jewels that enhanced the durability and precision of the mechanism.
• Frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour (VPH), providing accurate and reliable timing.
• Column wheel chronograph function, allowing for smooth activation and reset.
• Approximately 40-hour power reserve, ensuring extended use between manual winding.

The Landeron 152 was part of a series of Landeron movements used in numerous Swiss watch brands of the time, establishing itself as one of the most reliable mechanisms in the category of affordable mechanical chronographs.

Design and features of Cristal Watch chronographs

The chronographs from Cristal Watch equipped with the Landeron 152 caliber typically had:

• Stainless steel or chrome-plated cases, with sizes between 36 and 38 mm, standard dimensions for the time.
• Bicompax or tricompax dial designs, in silver, gold, or black tones, with tachymeter and telemeter scales.
• Round or rectangular pushers, allowing for ergonomic use of the chronograph.
• Acrylic crystal, characteristic of watches from the 1950s.

The design of these watches reflected the classic aesthetic of Swiss chronographs from the mid-20th century, with a combination of functionality and timeless elegance.

Impact and legacy

Although Cristal Watch did not achieve the same notoriety as other more commercial Swiss brands, its chronographs with Landeron 152 are still appreciated by collectors and vintage watch enthusiasts. Their quality of manufacture, combined with the prestige of the Landeron movement, makes them coveted pieces within the world of antique watches.

Currently, finding a Cristal Watch chronograph from the 1950s in good condition is a challenging task, as many of these watches have been modified or have suffered the effects of time. However, those that have been properly restored maintain their precision and appeal, reflecting an era when mechanical watchmaking was at its peak.

Conclusion

The 1950s Cristal Watch chronographs, powered by the Landeron 152 caliber, represent an important segment of Swiss watchmaking history. Their elegant design, mechanical reliability, and legacy in the world of vintage watches make them pieces worthy of preservation and appreciation for future generations.

TEMPPUS. All rights reserved.